#Japan #Tokyo #MODE #Marginal Consort #Aki Onda

MODE's 2025 Second Edition Program

The innovative platform for experimental music and performing arts, MODE, has officially announced its second program for 2025. This exciting event will take place in the basement of a vacant building along Ginza's Corridor Street, offering a unique setting for artists' experimental expressions. The program is set to run from May 16th to 18th, 2025, featuring a blend of live performances and film screenings from diverse international artists.

The program showcases notable performances from the groundbreaking group, Marginal Consort, co-curated by SuperDeluxe. This legendary improvisational ensemble, which has become a cornerstone of Japan's avant-garde music scene, will take the spotlight on May 16th. The performance features esteemed musicians such as Kazuo Imai, Takanobu Koshikawa, Kei Shi, and Masami Toda. The three-hour performance is recognized globally for its rarity, marking only a few live shows each year.

On May 17th, the program will feature a performance by Carl Stone, an acclaimed pioneer in computer music, alongside Rai Tateishi, known for his solo album 'Presence'. In this live set, Tateishi integrates live processing by Koshiro Hino, delivering an innovative musical experience.

The final day, May 18th, presents a performance titled 'Spirits Known and Unknown' by Aki Onda. This multifaceted artist, who has made significant contributions to sound installation and performance art, will take the stage alongside Park Jiha, a renowned composer from South Korea, who is known for her unique utilization of traditional instruments in creating experimental soundscapes.

In addition to the live performances, the program will also feature film screenings on May 17th and 18th. The screenings include the first feature film 'Preemptive Listening' by Aura Satz, as well as recent works by Reiji Saito, showcasing his innovative approach to film through a collection of imagery drawn from extensive documentation of daily life.

A pop-up shop organized by Art into Life will feature a curated selection of vinyl records and items related to experimental music during all three days of the program. This event reflects a collaborative effort between artists and the community, embracing the philosophy of music beyond mere entertainment, aiming to create dialogues and engage audiences in profound explorations.

Venue & Access

The location for this vibrant event is the B1F of Corridor Square, located at 7-2-22 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo. This site, anticipated for demolition soon due to urban redevelopment, offers a unique and ephemeral backdrop for the arts.

This engaging program serves to enrich the cultural tapestry of Tokyo, continuing a series that follows performances at the New National Theatre by Soundwalk Collective & Patti Smith, as well as exhibitions at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo. With its diverse lineup and innovative approach to performance and film, MODE's 2025 second edition promises a transformative experience for all who attend.

This event is made possible by support from the Tokyo Arts Council, further emphasizing the city's commitment to fostering artistic expression and dialogue through such dynamic collaborative initiatives.